Needless to say we as a country, and indeed a world, are in a unique time of financial upheaval – times which can bring with them deep concern and fear.
While not wanting to minimize the personal pain and sacrifice that many will suffer as a result of the meltdown, I do wish to sound a note of encouragement in the midst of it all. We know that God is aware of and present in all circumstances, so let’s look at some potentially bright sides of an otherwise very dark situation.
? We are being reminded of reality. The warning signs and predictions that things could not continue as they were have been present for some time. In the times ahead, some basic principles around living within our means, avoiding consumer debt, and saving for the unexpected will undoubtedly be adhered to by greater numbers of people.
? There are opportunities for the church and for your stewardship ministry to provide help and sound biblical teaching on personal money management to a much more receptive audience within and outside the church.
? Those who have lived with financial margin in their lives will serve as examples of the benefits of having done so and will be in the best position to be of help to others.
? On a macro level, increased regulation of certain sectors of our financial markets, about which some have warned of excesses for some time, will become reality and will hopefully prevent repeats of the abuses that have led to the situation we are in now. Capitalism must have moral restraints and while those can’t be legislated, regulations can at least make it harder to do wrong and easier to punish those who do.
? Most significantly, we are reminded that earthly treasures can succumb to rust, moths, thieves, and to economic upheavals and that it’s our treasures in heaven that are safe for eternity.
How then shall we live? Here are some brief thoughts:
? Live with confidence in a sovereign God, not in fear of the circumstances around you.
? Don’t panic. Continue to do those things that you know to be right, wise, and consistent with biblical financial principles. Stop doing those things that are not.
? Use this opportunity to take a hard look at where you can be a better steward – a more prudent spender, wise saver, cautious debtor, and yes, even a more generous giver. In the good times we all get a little lax. Crisis forces us to be more creative.
? Talk with family and/or close friends. Encourage one another, share insights, reaffirm truths, thank God together for His promises.
? Be reminded that this too shall pass. We’ve been here before.
? Dollar-cost average some of your investments if you are still in a position to have some discretionary income and a fairly long time frame.
One more thing; if you’re a stewardship leader, lead! This is a golden opportunity to reach folks who may not have been receptive in the past. Check out the new Good $ense Freed-UP Financial Living resource. I don’t think it’s an accident that it has come out at this very time.
